Football in South Africa Football in South Africa Tweet on Twitter Football – or soccer, as many of us call it – is the most widely played sport in South Africa, with its traditional support base in the black community. For many South Africans, the country’s proudest sporting moment came when we won the African Nations Cup on home turf in 1996. Soccer is intensely followed, and the quality of the local game keeps improving – as demonstrated by the increasing number of South African players-in-exile among the glamorous European clubs. Local teams, organised in a national league plus a plethora of knock-out cups, are followed with passion by paint-daubed, costumed, whistling and cheering fans. Mercifully, the country has been spared the spectre of football hooliganism. There’s probably no quicker way to “break the ice” with the South African on the street than to demonstrate some knowledge of local soccer. To help you improve your conversational skills, here’s a crash course on the country’s most important teams and competitions. First Division BAFANA BAFANA One of the first gifts that democracy brought South Africa was its first truly representative national soccer team.

In 1992, two years before the country’s first democratic election, the united South African team came into being, playing Cameroon in its first match in Durban on 9 July. It was a triumphant occasion for the side that came to be known as Bafana Bafana – “The Boys” – as they edged the West African powerhouse by a goal to nil. However, the win concealed the negative effect that apartheid-enforced isolation had had on local soccer. This lack of international experience showed as South Africa lost four matches in a row – to Cameroon, Zambia, Nigeria and Zambia – in failing to qualify for the 1994 African Nations Cup. When South Africa hosted the 1996 African Nations Cup, however, South Africa proved they belonged in the finals by defeating Tunisia 2-0 in the final. It was during the team’s run to the title that its nickname, “Bafana Bafana”, became known around the world.

Read more: Bafana Bafana – a quick history BANYANA BANYANA South Africa’s senior women’s team, Banyana Banyana – “The Girls” – have traditionally been the strongest team in southern Africa and one of the best in Africa. For many years, Nigeria were their stumbling block, but that barrier was finally broken down in 2012 in the semi-finals of the Caf African Women’s Championship. Like Nigeria, though, Equatorial Guinea has twice beaten Banyana in the final of African Women’s Championship. The team finished runner-up to Nigeria in 1995 and 2000, and runner-up to Equatorial Guinea in 2008 and 2012. There were also second place finishes at the All Africa Games in 2003 and 2007. One of their biggest achievements was qualifying for the Olympic Games in 2012 in London. In a very tough pool, up against three teams ranked in the top 10 in the world, Banyana went down 1-4 to Sweden, lost 0-3 to Canada, but then held World Cup champions Japan to a goalless draw.

GLAMOUR CLUBS Kaizer Chiefs South Africa’s favourite soccer club never seems to play an away match. “The Amakhozi” often draw more supporters at away games than their opposition. Founded in 1970 by Kaizer Motaung – who made his name in the United States when the American league was drawing such superstars as Pele, Johan Cruyff and Franz Beckenbauer – Kaizer Chiefs are one of South Africa’s most successful teams. Thrice the winners of South Africa’s Premier Soccer League since its launch in 1997, the Soweto, Johannesburg-based team secured their first African title in 2002 when they won the Cup Winners Cup – renamed after Nelson Mandela – by defeating Inter Luanda of Angola in the final. Orlando Pirates Formed in 1937, Orlando Pirates has a support base extending across the country’s borders. Four-time winners of SA’s Premier Soccer League since its launch in 1997, “The Buccaneers” are the only South African team so far to have won Africa’s premier club competition, the Champions League, a feat they achieved in 1995.

Like Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates – who are also based in Soweto, Johannesburg – are seldom disadvantaged when they play away from home, with fanatical supporters spread throughout South Africa. The fierce traditional rivalry between Pirates and Chiefs makes for one of the biggest derby matches in the world. In November 2007, on the day preceding the 2010 Fifa World Cup™ draw in Durban, the Chiefs-Pirates derby was broadcast throughout Africa and 43 European countries, a first for South African football. Mamelodi Sundowns, SuperSport United While Chiefs and Pirates have long battled for the title of South Africa’s most popular club, other outfits have emerged to challenge for the position, among them two Tshwane/Pretoria-based clubs: Mamelodi Sundowns and SuperSport United. Backed by billionaire mining magnate Patrice Motsepe, Mamelodi Sundowns have the finances to ensure a squad with depth and quality. The club is often compared to England’s Chelsea, which rose to prominence partly through the backing of Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich.

“The Brazilians” have been the most successful team since the formation of the Premier Soccer League in 1997, winning the title on five occasions, most recently in 2007. Since then, however, they have had to surrender the title to another “youngster” among South African football clubs. SuperSport United was formed in 1994, when pay-television company M-Net bought Pretoria City and renamed the club after its popular sports channel. They lifted the PSL title in three successive years, from 2008 to 2010. PREMIER SOCCER LEAGUE South Africa’s top soccer league, featuring the country’s best 16 clubs, came into being in 1997. The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has helped raise the standard of club football in South Africa, providing the sport with better media coverage and much-improved revenue through strong sponsorship deals. It has also provided a platform for local players to make their mark and catch the eye of overseas clubs. Sponsorship boom In June 2007, the PSL pulled off an astounding coup when it signed a R1.6-billion broadcast deal with SuperSport International.

In August 2007, corporate heavyweights South African Breweries (SAB) and Absa Bank announced a joint sponsorship of more than R500-million over the next five years for South African football. SAB is behind Bafana Bafana, while Absa sponsors the PSL’s Premier Division. In February 2008, Nedbank announced that it would be putting up R20-million in prize money for the Nedbank Cup knockout competition as part of a five-year, R400- million sponsorship of the local game. And in August 2008, cellular giant MTN committed the same amount – R400- million over five years – to the local game, while taking over the title sponsorship of the Top 8 knockout tournament. These deals combined have made South Africa’s Premier Soccer League the seventh biggest earner of sponsorship revenue among football leagues worldwide. Premier Soccer League champions: A number of knockout competitions are played alongside the league fixtures in South African soccer.

Nedbank Cup A knockout competition modelled on England’s famous FA Cup, giving lower league teams the chance to do battle with premier league clubs, has been in existence since 1978, under various names: the Mainstay Cup (1978-1987), Bobsave Superbowl (1988-2002), Absa Cup (2003-07) and, from 2008, the Nedbank Cup. With a total prize purse of R19.3-million, including R6-million for the winners, R2.5-million for the runners-up and R1-million for the losing semi-finalists, the Nedbank Cup is the most lucrative domestic soccer competition in Africa. Nedbank Cup champions: Banyana enter new era for women’s football - SuperSport - Football Banyana enter new era for women’s football 08 November 2012, 16:19 Tweet Banyana Banyana’s 1-0 semifinal triumph over Nigeria in CAF African Women Championship action in Bata Equatorial Guinea on Wednesday is the dawn of a new era for women’s football in South Africa.

Speaking after Banyana Banyana’s historic win over Nigeria, SA Football Association (Safa) President Kirsten Nematandani said these were exciting times for women’s football in the country. Nematandani will fly to Malabo to support the Sasol-sponsored South African senior women’s national team in Sunday’s (11 November) final against hosts Equatorial Guinea. “That was a fantastic result and we now hope to go all the way and capture the title on Sunday. Banyana Banyana have really become a prestigious South African brand and as predicted, the Olympics experience is starting to tell,” said Nematandani. “Nigeria has always gotten the better of our girls and Wednesday’s win should herald a new era for women’s football in our country. The victory should open doors for the growth of women soccer.

Well done to the girls for making the country proud.” Banyana Banyana head coach Joseph Mkhonza, who took charge of Banyana Banyana after the national team’s bronze medal finish at the CAF African Women Championship 2010 held in Ekurhuleni, near Johannesburg, remarked: “We have come a long way since winning the bronze medal in Ekurhuleni in 2010. We know that past reputations count for nothing as we have seen our first ever win against Nigeria so anything is possible. We are in a very positive frame of mind going into the final game against the hosts but we are still focussed on attaining our mission of taking gold in this tournament. We came here with a mission and that mission is still on track,” said Mkhonza. Nobody in the Banyana Banyana camp had a bigger smile than central defender Janine van Wyk, whose stunning 23rd minute left footed strike from 25 metres broke the Nigerians’ hearts, giving South Africa their first ever win over Africa’s No 1 ranked side since 1993. Nigeria has won the CAF AWC six times.

“At the CAF African Championship held in South Africa in 2010 I scored with a free kick from 35 metres out against Nigeria, and my teammates always remind me that I normally reserve my best for matches against Nigeria,” she laughed. “I have been in this squad since 2004 and have played 90 times for the national team, so to be in the team that defeated Nigeria for the first time leaves an amazing feeling that I will cherish forever. Safa and Sasol need to be thanked for the continued support given to women’s football, which has allowed the players to become household names across all communities, and role models, most notably to the youth.” Sasol Sponsorship Specialist, Football, Dumisani Mbokane expressed his delight at the national team’s successful passage to the grand finale of Africa’s premier women’s football event. “Sasol is a committed role player in working towards the empowerment of women through football which is a key cornerstone of nation building,” said Mbokane.

“On behalf of Sasol, I would like to extend our sincere congratulations to the Banyana Banyana management and players, and wish them the best of luck for Sunday’s final.” © supersport.com About South Africa - SuperSport - Football seconds About South Africa Back (L-R) Oupa Manyisa, Thabo Matlaba , May Mahlangu, Thuso Phala, Katlego Mphela, Siboniso Gaxa, Reneilwe Letsholonyane, Dean Furman, Tokelo Rantie, Thulani Serero Middle (L-R) Thabo Nthethe, Anele Ngcongca, Kagisho Dikgacoi, Wayne Sandilands, Itumeleng Khune, Zac van Heerden (Fitness Trainer), Senzo Meyiwa, Siyabonga Sangweni, Lerato Chabangu, Lehlohonolo Majoro Front (L-R) Serame Letsoaka (Assistant Coach), Tshepo Masilela, Bongani Khumalo (Captain), Gordon Igesund (Head Coach), Siphiwe Tshabalala, Bernard Parker, Alex Heredia (Goalkeeper Coach) FIFA Rank:

 84 Best AFCON finish: Champions (1996) AFCON 2012 finish: Did not qualify AFCON PEDIGREE: South Africa go into the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations with the weight of expectation imposed by their status as hosts.

The farcical manner of their failure to qualify for the 2012 edition significantly adds to the pressure. In fact, Bafana Bafana have many years to make up for, having achieved nothing of note in the intervening period since winning the title on home soil in 1996. They will hope to ride the wave of euphoria and optimism and deliver the title to success-starved, expectant home fans. The last two tournaments were instantly forgettable for Bafana, who failed to qualify for both. But for some administrative bungling and a game plan for the group decider against Sierra Leone based on a poor grasp of qualifying rules they might have qualified for 2012. With Niger losing to Egypt in their final group match Bafana believed a draw against the Leone stars would be enough to secure their progress. Even though they would finish level on nine points with Niger and Sierra Leone, they assumed that their superior goal difference would hold sway. A quick review of the rules revealed that the side with a better head-to-head record advanced. It was a chastening discovery for Pitso Mosimane and his boys.

Since the 1996 triumph presided over by the charismatic coach Clive Barker the decline has been progressive. In their next three involvements Bafana finished as runners-up, in third-place and as losing quarter-finalists respectively. Three group stage exits followed as the downward spiral continued. Can Bafana Bafana invoke the spirit of 1996 at AFCON 2013? SQUAD OVERVIEW: The vast majority of the Bafana Bafana players ply their trade in the Premier Soccer League in South Africa, giving coach Gordon Igesund a big boost in terms of monitoring his potential squad members. However, the likes of Thulani Serero (Ajax Amsterdam), Kagisho Dikgacoi (Crystal Palace) and Bongani Khumalo (PAOK Athens) all play their football abroad, although the coach recently travelled to Europe to hold meetings with the overseas players in question. A big blow to Igesund's plans was Steven Pienaar decision to retire from international football, with the former Bafana captain opting instead to focus on his club career with Everton.

Igesund was also keen to bring Andrew Surman into the fold, but the Bafana coach’s overtures were snubbed by the Norwich City star who passed up the opportunity to represent the country of his birth.

FULL SQUAD: Goalkeepers: Itumeleng Khune (Kaizer Chiefs), Senzo Meyiwa (Orlando Pirates), Wayne Sandilands (Mamelodi Sundowns) Defenders: Siboniso Gaxa and Tshepo Masilela (Chiefs), Thabo Matlaba and Siyabonga Sangweni (Pirates), Bongani Khumalo (PAOK/GRE), Anele Ngcongca (Genk/BEL), Thabo Nthethe (Bloemfontein Celtic) Midfielders: Reneilwe Letsholonyane and Siphiwe Tshabalala(Chiefs), Lerato Chabangu (Moroka Swallows), Kagiso Dikgacoi (Crystal Palace/ENG), Dean Furman (Oldham/ENG), Max Mahlangu (Helsingborg/SWE), Oupa Manyisa (Pirates), Thuso Phala (Platinum Stars), Thulani Serero (Ajax/NED) Strikers: Lehlohonolo Majoro and Bernard Parker (Chiefs), Katlego Mphela (Sundowns), Tokelo Rantie (Malmo/SWE).

Player to Watch: Siyabonga Sangweni Playmaker Siphiwe Tshabalala, arguably one of the hottest talents in the country and Kaizer Chiefs team-mate Bernard Parker, currently joint-top in the PSL Golden Boot race with nine goals in 16 league matches, are genuine contenders. But our pick is Siyabonga Sangweni. The Orlando Pirates defender was one of the standout performers as the Buccaneers earned an historic double-treble in the PSL last season. The 31-year-old finished that campaign behind Siyabonga Nomvethe in the race for the Player of the Season award. Sangweni is one of South Africa’s most naturally gifted defenders and seems to get better with each match he plays. He is going to be a key player for the hosts. Rising Star: Tokelo Rantie Tokelo Rantie's performances while on loan at Orlando Pirates last season had South Africa buzzing with anticipation. The striker netted seven goals in 20 appearances for the Buccaneers who unfortunately were unable to make the deal permanent.

The 22-year-old Stars of Africa Academy forward joined Swedish side Malmo FF in a 17-month loan deal, scoring a hat-trick on his competitive debut for the club. The striker carried that form over to Bafana following his call-up in June last year, and scored the first of his two international goals so far in his very next match. Sorely Missed: Benni McCarthy The return of Benni McCarthy to the Bafana Bafana set-up in June following a two-year absence had the nation giddy with anticipation. However, South Africa’s all-time record goal scorer lasted just a few minutes during the friendly against Brazil and has been struggling with a hamstring strain ever since. The injury effectively ruled him out of this year's African showpiece, leaving the goal-scoring burden on Bernard Parker, Katlego Mphela, Tokelo Rantie and Lehlohonolo Majoro. Ten things you never knew about South Africa 1. The South African national football team is known as Bafana Bafana. This literally translates to ‘The Boys The Boys.’ Interestingly the women’s team is called Banyana Banyana which means The Girls The Girls. 2.

South Africa is the second largest exporter of fruit in the world. 3. The world's first ever heart transplant was performed in South Africa, by a South African. Dr Chris Barnard became the first surgeon to perform the operation at Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town in 1967. 4. The world's largest diamond, The Cullinan Diamond, was found in South Africa in 1905. It was cut into the Great Star of Africa, the Lesser Star of Africa and 104 other diamonds of nearly flawless color and clarity which now form part of the British crown jewels. 5. The members of British band Kaiser Chiefs are from Leeds where former South African skipper Lucas Radebe used to play. Such is the admiration in which he is held that when forming their band the members chose to name it after Lucas’ former club Kaizer Chiefs. 6. In his playing days Bafana Bafana coach Gordon Igesund was a striker. He played for a number of teams including Durban City, Bush Bucks, AmaZulu, D'Alberton Callies, African Wanderers. He also played in Europe with Austrian sides GAK and Admira Wacker. 7.

South Africa has only won the AFCON once. They did it back in 1996 when they were the hosts. It was also the first time that they had ‘qualified’ for the finals. 8. Since his departure from the position of Bafana Bafana coach in 2009 Joel Santana has aleady had a further four jobs in management. He has gone on to enjoy pay-days at Botafogo, Cruzeiro, Bahia and Flamengo. 9. The automated pool cleaner or Kreepy Krauly was a South African invention. It was first made by hydraulics engineer Ferdinand Chauvier in 1974. 10. There are reportedly more than 280000 windmills pumping water on farms across South Africa. This is the second highest in the world, with Australia the only nation to boast more. Event Streaming Women's Soccer Africa: February 2012 Women's Soccer Africa Bringing African women's soccer to the door step of the rest of the world. Pages ......... SEND US YOUR NEWS FROM THE AFRICAN WOMEN'S SOCCER WORLD....womenssoccerafrica@gmail.com..... ......

Wednesday, February 29, 2012 South Africa's Banyana Banyana fall to South Korea In Cyprus Banyana Banyana found themselves on the wrong end of a gailforce wind and a rampant second half performance by South Korea, as they went down by two goals to one (2-1) in their opening Group C fixture at the Cyprus Women’s Cup on Tuesday, 28 February 2012. The Sasol-sponsored Banyana Banyana dominated possession in the first half of the match but had to settle for a goal-less score-line at the interval. During the half-time break the rain began to pour down at the Tascos Marko Stadium in Paralimni. The South Koreans played with the powerful wind in their favour in the second period and a raid on the South African penalty area saw team captain Yun-Hee Chu slot the ball home wide of Banyana Banyana goalkeeper Thoko Mndaweni in the 50th minute. The wind – which kept relatively low during the first half of the match – assisted the South Koreans, with the Banyana Banyana midfield pushed back to help their defenders.

The South Koreans doubled their lead in the 69th minute when goalkeeper Mndaweni and right back defender Simphiwe Masina got into a tangle, and the ball slipped off Masina’s boot for Minji Leo to slot the ball home. Noko Matlou scored her 53rd goal for her country in her 65th international appearance when she converted some Banyana Banyana pressure by firing the ball home through a crowded penalty area in the final minute of the match. Central defender Amanda Sister played superbly in the Banyana Banyana rear-guard and cleared the ball away from many dangerous attacking situations set up by the South Koreans, while US-based midfielder Kylie-Ann Louw was a constant threat on the right flank. Banyana Banyana will face New Zealand in their second match at the tournament on Thursday (01 March 2012).

safa.net Arrival of Nyandeni and Louw is a double boost after Banyana Banyana win in Rio Experienced midfielders Nompumelelo Nyandeni and Kylie-Ann Louw will find their Banyana Banyana team-mates in high spirits when they meet up in Cyprus on Friday, after the national senior women’s team thrashed Selecao do Marinha 5-1 in their final match in Brazil on Wednesday, 22 February 2012. Following the victory over the 2010 World Military Games Champions, the Sasol-sponsored Banyana Banyana jetted out of Rio de Janeiro via Dubai to Cyprus for the Cyprus Women’s Cup which starts on February 28. Two right flank raids by prolific striker Noko Matlou saw her produce crosses of excellence to allow tall forward Andiswe Mgcoyi to score twice within the first 13 minutes. The Banyana Banyana players found themselves on the wrong side of some of the match official’s decisions with a push on goalkeeper Thoko Mndaweni from a Selecao do Marinha corner kick, allowing the host’s to score.

Matlou headed home 5 minutes later only for the goal to be controversially declared offside. But the second 45 minutes belonged to the Amanda Dlamini’s team, with the skipper herself getting on the score-sheet in delivering a powerful header, before midfielder Morifi Chuene saw her pile-driver effort rebound off the Selecao do Marinha cross bar for Matlou to score. Morifi, who plays for inaugural Sasol League National Champions Detroit Ladies, scored the final goal after a fine mix of strength and speed on the left wing, and was on hand to put the ball into the net from a tight angle after the Selecao do Marinha goalkeeper deflected the initial shot away. “We fielded a powerful Banyana Banyana line up as this was our last match before facing South Korea in our opening fixture at the Cyprus Women’s Cup, and the girls applied themselves extremely well, national head coach Joseph Mkhonza.

“The South American tour gave the players 11 days to train together and play three matches against quality opposition prior to the tournament in Cyprus and Sasol and SAFA need to be commended for the support shown to our country’s women footballers in the build up to Banyana Banyana’s participation at the London Olympics in July this year.” With 22 players to be registered for action at the Cyprus Women’s Cup, the arrival of Nyandeni and Louw has meant that striker Zanele Sukazi (University of Johannesburg Sasol League Gauteng) and midfielder Nocawe Skiti (Cape Town Roses, Sasol League Western Cape) will leave the team and head home. The Banyana Banyana coaching staff has called for Nkosimphile Zungu (Barcelona Ladies, Sasol League KwaZulu Natal) to join the team in Cyprus in place of North West-based goalkeeper Mputle Ntshatsana who sustained a knee injury during the national camp in Brazil.

safa.net Banyana Banyana Go down 3-2 to Brazilian side,Selecao do Marinha Banyana Banyana’s second half performance gave much hope to the players, despite going down by three goals to two (3-2) to 2010 World Military Games champions Selecao do Marinha. The match was played in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on Saturday, 18 February 2012. The hosts led 3-1 at half-time. Head coach of Banyana Banyana Joseph Mkhonza made eight changes to the starting line up from side that beat Cepe Caxias 1-0 on Tuesday (14 February), in order to give all of the travelling players game time on the trip. Midfielder Nomathemba Ntsibande scored for the visitors in the 35th minute after playing a superb one-two pass movement with striker Zanele Sukazi. Second half substitute Gabisile Hlumbane scored her first goal for the women’s national team when she finished off a cross from the right-hand side in the 78th minute.

The Sasol-sponsored Banyana Banyana side looked a much more competitive outfit in the second half when the coach introduced captain and midfielder Amanda Dlamini, midfielders Memory Makhanya and Nocawe Skiti and tall striker Andiswe Mgcoyi. The South Africans could have shared the result had striker Noko Matlou found the back of the net from the penalty spot early in the second half. The Banyana Banyana vice captain was brought down in the penalty area. From the spot-kick she saw her effort saved by the goalkeeper, while the second chance from the rebound hit the cross bar before the ball was cleared to safety. “We are not happy with the loss, and in fact we could have at the very least shared the spoils, we had enough scoring opportunities to have won the match. But the exercise was important in allowing us to try out strategic combinations on this South American tour. I am happy with the performance of the girls who are improving with every match. These are the kind of challenges we need so we can rectify our mistakes long before we get to London,” said Mkhonza.

Banyana Banyana will play their final match of their South American tour on Wednesday, 22 February against Brazilian club side Vasco da Gama, before flying to Europe the next day (Thursday, 23 February) to compete in the 12-nation Cyprus Women’s Cup. safa.net U.S.$3 Million Sponsorship Package for Zimbabwe Women's Football MARANGE Resources (Pvt) Ltd has unveiled an estimated US$3 million sponsorship package for women's soccer. The launch, which was witnessed by President Mugabe who is the chief patron of the Mighty Warriors last night, will see the mining giant funding the national league, the Under 20 national team and the Mighty Warriors. The Under 20 team meets Mozambique in a World Cup qualifier at Rufaro tomorrow. Marange Resources and the Zimbabwe Women Soccer League unveil the national teams' full kit comprising travelling attire, tracksuits, training kits, home and away playing strips. Marange Resources will take care of the teams' travelling and home match expenses. The sponsorship, a first of its kind in Zimbabwean soccer, is in the same breath with the sponsorship enjoyed by South African national teams.

The teams are bankrolled by such companies as Castle and Sasol for Bafana Bafana and Banyana respectively and ABSA for their premier league. The sponsorship for the national league includes kits, travel expenses, accommodation and referees fees. The sponsors are yet to announce the package for the league although it is believed to be close to US$1 million. President Mugabe said the package should spur the Mighty Warriors to greater heights. He challenged the senior men's team to draw inspiration from Chipolopolo. "The victory by Chipolopolo was our joy, it was our joy as Zimbabwe and the whole of Southern Africa. It is still our joy that the trophy is now in our region. We hope this victory by Chipolopolo will push our women's team to emulate the Zambian team." "The Zambians did it for their country, they did it for Southern Africa and we hope our Mighty Warriors will also do it for us," he said. Marange Resources chief executive Obert Moyo said they decided to partner women's football as part of their social responsibility.

"As part of our corporate social responsibility, we have decided to sponsor the Mighty Warriors, the Under-20 team, women's national league, cricket which has returned to Test cricket and a golf tournament as well as two other sporting disciplines which we are yet to identify. "There was no need to sponsor starting from the top where there is nothing to feed, so we decided to sponsor the Under-20 national team and the national league so that they feed to the national team. "We were impressed by their results in the last two years and we hope our assistance will help them," said Moyo. Women's soccer league boss Mavis Gumbo said they will jealously guard the sponsorship and be the jewel in the crown for Zimbabwean football. BY GRACE CHINGOMA AND SYDNEY KAWADZA Ghana U20's Rout Namibia Ghana rained in the goals against Namibia as the Black Princesses cruised to a 7-0 first leg win in the qualifying for the 2012 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup. Coach Robert Sackey's side finished the first half 4-0 up before scoring three more goals after the break.

Striker Florence Dadson scored a hat-trick as the Black Princesses won convincingly against their opponents who had a player sent off in the first half at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday for blocking a goal bound shot with the arm. And strikes from captain Priscilla Saahene, Elizabeth Addo, Faustina Ansah and Deborah Afriyie sealed the day for the Black Princesses. The Black Princesses travel to Windhoek for the reverse game on the weekend on 2-4 March, 2012 as they chase a place in the finals to be hosted by Uzbekistan in what will be their second finals after their debut in Germany 2010. ghanafa.org Women's Soccer News-FIFA Women's U-20 World Cup Qualifiers and more FIFA Women's U-20 Qualifer- Ghana vs Namibia The Namibian national women under-20 team will have big challenge as they take on African women soccer powerhouse Ghana in Accra on Saturday. The two sides meet for the first leg of their FIFA Women U/20 World cup qualifier match with the return leg scheduled for Windhoek on March 4.

We are reliably informed that the namibian team is relatively young with six players from the U/17 team featuring in the squad for exposure, according to Head coach of the namibian National women soccer Jacqueline Shipanga. Africa has got two slots for the 2012 World Cup in Japan who have now got the right to hos the tournament from 19 August- 09 September. South African Women's U-20 Complete Preparation Ahead of World Cup Qualifier The South African Under 20 Women’s National Team (Basetsana) has completed a successful training camp before departing for Botswana where they will play the first leg of the FIFA Under 20 Women’s World Cup first round qualifier scheduled for Molepolole Stadium in Gaborone on Friday. Kick-off 19h00. The championships will take place in Japan from 18 August – 9 September 2012. The Basetsana squad has been training at the Nike Sports Centre and Edenvale Sports Grounds. They departed for Botswana this morning (16 February 2012).

Head coach, Sheryl Botes said preparations had gone well and the mood in camp was one of excitement following the win over Zimbabwe earlier this month. “I am glad preparations have been going according to plan and the performance over Zimbabwe has given the girls added motivation. I would also like them to carry the same attitude to Botswana, and continue from where we left off. The target is to do well in the qualifiers as we would like to see ourselves in Japan come August,” said Botes. Basetsana played a practice match against Diambars Football Academy U16 Boys side on Tuesday (14 February 2012) to keep the girls in good condition. “The girls played really well against the boys’ side and I am happy with the massive progress they have made. The tactical formation and combinations along with defensive techniques are coming together quite well. We are aware that the away game against Botswana will come with its challenges but our aim is to score as many goals over there as we can so that we have a comfortable lead going into the second leg of the qualifier here at home,” added Botes.

The return leg match is scheduled for Saturday 3 March 2012.The squad returns to South Africa on Saturday, 18 February 2012. Banyana Banyana Beats Brazilian club side Cepe Caxias The South African Senior Women’s National Team (Banyana Banyana) got their South American campaign off to a winning start with a one nil (1-0) win over Brazil club Cepe Caxias. The match was played in baking heat on Valentine’s Day (Tuesday, 14 February 2012) at the Xerem Duque de Caxias Stadium in Rio de Janeiro. Banyana Banyana captain Amanda Dlamini scored the solitary goal in the 77th minute. The skipper tapped the ball home after receiving a superbly played diagonal pass form the right hand side of the field. The ball was delivered by second half substitute midfielder Memory Makhanya.

Striker Sanah Mollo of Bloemfontein Celtic in the Free State Sasol League, started up front alongside tall Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies (Gauteng Sasol League) goal-getter Andisiwe Mgcoyi, with Leandra Smeda, Mary Ntsweng, Nondyebo Mgudu and Dlamini controlling matters in midfield. Gabisile Hlumbane and Zamandosi Cele played in the defensive fullback positions with the ever consistent central defensive pair of Janine van Wyk and Amanda Sister, dominant in front of their goalkeeper Thoko Mndaweni. The Sasol-sponsored senior women’s national team had enough opportunities to score more goals to clinch the victory much early in the game, with head coach Joseph Mkhonza happy with the attacking elements of Banyana Banyana’s performance. “We spent a lot of time focusing on our attacking play during the three week camp held in Stellenbosch in January and it’s paying off, judging by the short passes into space produced by our players in the final third of the field,” said Mkhonza.

“This three-match South American tour is the perfect build up to playing at the 12-nation Cyprus Women’s Cup from 28 February to 6 March and we need to commend everyone for creating these opportunities for our country’s top female footballers ahead of our participation at the 2012 London Olympics.” Banyana Banyana will continue training at Brazil’s national football training centre, Granja Comary, 100km outside Rio de Janeiro on Wednesday (15 February), Thursday (16 February) and Friday (17 February), before facing a Navy Select team on Saturday (18 February) in their second fixture of the tour. safa.net Banyana Banyana Arrive In Brazil The South African Senior Women’s National Team (Banyana Banyana) has safely arrived in South America for their training camp. Banyana Banyana can expect to wear their rain jackets for the next day or two after a Brazilian thunderstorm greeted the players at their base camp in Teresopolis, 100km outside Rio de Janeiro on Sunday, 12 February 2012.

After their 24-hour air transit, followed by a 90-minute bus ride from Rio de Janeiro to Teresopolis, the Sasol-sponsored national senior women's team was in high spirits as they embarked on the 12-day stay in South America which will include four matches against top Brazilian women's football club teams. "Last year, as a part of Banyana Banyana's qualification campaign for the 2012 London Olympics, we only played against African teams, so we are grateful to Sasol and SAFA for affording us the opportunity of playing against South American teams before we travel to take part in the Cyprus Women's Cup later this month," said Banyana Banyana head coach Joseph Mkhonza.

"In Cyprus, Banyana Banyana is drawn in a group that includes South Korea, New Zealand and Northern Ireland, once again allowing us the opportunity to play against teams from various continents, who have different styles of play which will help us when we play at the Olympics." The 21-strong Banyana Banyana team will soon be joined in Brazil by Roxanne Barker, the former Durban Ladies Sasol League KwaZulu Natal goalkeeper, who plays her football for Peperdine University in the USA. "I need to pick three goalkeepers for the Banyana Banyana team that will play at the Olympics in London in July this year, so I am monitoring that department, like all the others, to ensure that we send the best players to represent South Africa at the Olympics," added Mkhonza. safa.net Tribute to Nigeria's Felicia Eze Felicia Eze a member of the Super Falcons squad that won Gold Medal at the 2003 All African Games for Nigeria is dead. She was also among the players who won the 2004 African Women’s Championship in South Africa and also feature in the 2004 Olympic games held in Greece.

She died after a brief illness on Wednesday, Feb 1st. she was only 38years old. So sad. May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace. As the Nigeria Football Federation and the entire African women's soccer community mourn the death of ex-Super Falcon midfielder Felicia Eze,Womenssoccerafrica will hereby offer their condolences and sympathy to the bereaved family and the Super Falcons. The South African Senior Women’s National Team (Banyana Banyana) will be looking to shine on their 18-day ‘Mission South America’ before competing in the Cyprus Women’s Cup from February 28 to March 6. Twenty two players will be on the travelling party. USA-based goalkeeper Roxanne Barker and experienced central defender Janine van Wyk have been added to the group that spent three weeks focusing on endurance and strength training in Stellenbosch last month. Under the guidance of head coach Joseph ‘Skheshekheshe’ Mkhonza, the Sasol-sponsored national team will jet out of South Africa on Wednesday (8 February) to be based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, where they will play against a Brazilian club side, and the national senior women’s teams of Argentina, Peru and Chile.

The tournament in Cyprus requires twenty two players to be registered by each country, so with experienced midfielders Russian-based Nompumelelo Nyandeni and USA-based Kylie Ann Louw joining Banyana Banyana in Cyprus, two players from the travelling party will have to return home. Those players will be decided towards the end of the Brazil tour. Banyana Banyana will leave South America for Cyprus on Thursday, 23 February. “Following the highly successful national training camp held in Stellenbosch last month, it was crucial for Banyana Banyana to have a few friendly matches before competing against some of the world’s leading women’s football nations at the Cyprus Women’s Cup,” said Mkhonza. Last year, Banyana Banyana played mainly against African opposition en route to 2012 London Olympic Games qualification and representation at the All-Africa Games held in Mozambique. “It’s good for the team that the players are getting opportunities to play against different styles of football like against the South American teams and then Asian, Australasian and European opponents at the Cyprus Women’s Cup,” added Mkhonza.

For the Cyprus Women’s Cup, SA has been drawn in a group along with South Korea, New Zealand and Northern Ireland. The Banyana Banyana support team has also received a major boost, with the vastly experienced South African Under 23 National Team coach Ephraim ‘Shakes’ Mashaba roped in as the technical advisor to Mkhonza. The other newcomer is Brazil-based Bafana Bafana physical trainer Francisco “Chico” Gonzalez, and there is also additional support in the form of a bio kinetics consultant, masseur and a training session and match analyst. The Banyana Banyana squad to Brazil: Goalkeepers: Thoko Mndaweni – Nickname: ‘TK’. 50 Banyana Banyana caps. Age: 30 Based in Vosloorus, the super saver who plays for the University of Johannesburg in the Sasol League (Gauteng) is best remembered for a penalty shoot-out save and goal from her spot kick during South Africa's triumph on penalties in the Olympic Qualifier return leg match in Tunis in April last year. Roxanne Barker – Nickname: ‘Roxy’. 2 Banyana Banyana caps.

Age 20 Equally at home as a tough central defender, the former Durban Ladies (Sasol League) player founds herself between with the gloves on between the posts at Peperdine University (USA) these days. Mputle Ntshatsana – Nickname: ‘Catch’. 2 Banyana Banyana caps. Age: 21 The Rustenburg-based goal-minder has been playing football for 11 years and abides by her favourite diet of rice and fish. Defenders: Gabisile Hlumbane – Nickname: ‘China’ because of her Chinese-like eyes. 24 Banyana Banyana caps. Age: 25 The University of the Free State student plays her club football for Kovsies in the Sasol League Free State, and while brought in to Banyana Banyana as a midfield anchor, has proved her worth as left back defender who has also done duty at right back.

Janine van Wyk – Nickname: ‘Booth’ or ‘Boooooooth (as the fans calls her, being the only white defender in the team like Matthew Booth in his days playing for Bafana Bafana) 70 Banyana Banyana caps. 7 goals. Age: 24 Back in the team after missing the pre-Christmas camp and outing against Zimbabwe, Van Wyk’s experience, tackling and ability from attacking free kick situations will be worth its weight in gold to the national team. Van Wyk, who plays for Sasol League National Champions Palace Super Falcons, has an excellent understanding with central back colleague Amanda Sister – part of the foundation on which the Banyana Banyana success story has been built. Refiloe Jane – Nickname: ‘Fifi’ (short for Refiloe). Uncapped. Age 19 Equally At home in defence or midfield, Jane made a name for herself in the colours of her Sasol League club, Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies and is hoping to study sports management at Vaal University of Technology later this year. Amanda Sister – Nickname: ‘Amy’ (short for Amanda). 23 Banyana Banyana caps.

1 goal scored. Age: 21 The tough-tackling Port Elizabeth-based central defender has been a revelation in the heart of the Banyana defence, having been spotted playing for Liverpool Ladies in the Sasol League (Eastern Cape). Zamantosi Cele – Nickname: ‘Zama’. 9 Banyana Banyana caps. Age 21 One of 3 players in the current national squad that plays for Durban Ladies in the Sasol League, KwaZulu Natal. The Pietermaritzburg-based Public Management student is a competent player in the centre of defensive or right back role. Simphiwe Masina – Nickname: ‘Sju’ because she is short in size. 25 Banyana Banyana caps. Age 26 A member of Detroit Ladies in Mpumalanga, winners of the inaugural Sasol League National Championship title in 2009. Based in Bapsfontein, she is equally at home on the left or right side defensive role. Nothando Vilakazi – Nickname: ‘Vivo’ (because she likes the Vivo Polo car). 20 Banyana Banyana caps. 4 goals scored.

Age: 23 Plays for Rabie Ridge (Gauteng)-based Palace Super Falcons who have won the Sasol League National Championship title for the past two years. Used as a left back defender, she is just as comfortable playing as a left-sided striker. Midfielders: Mary Ntsweng – Nickname: ‘Jalee Jalee’ (because of her running technique). 35 Banyana Banyana caps. 1 goal scored. Age 22 The right-footed Polokwane-based midfielder is a Human Resources student at Tshwane University of Technology – the club she plays for in the Sasol League (Gauteng) Memory Makhanya – Nickname: ‘Memzo’. 36 Banyana Banyana caps. 5 goals scored. Age: 23 A right-footed midfielder, who plans on studying tourism at college this year. An experienced player in the powerful Durban Ladies team in the KwaZulu Natal Sasol League. Nomathemba Ntsibande – Nickname: ‘Lanka’ (because of her height). 18 Banyana Banyana caps. 1 goal scored.

Age 25 A central midfielder who plays for Springs Homesweepers in the Sasol League (Gauteng). Wants to be a sports scientist. Morifi Chuene – Nickname: ‘Master’ (a name she got in matric). Uncapped. Age: 20. The Detroit Ladies (Sasol League Mpumalanga) left wing lives in Katlehong and is a electrical engineering student. Nondyebo Mgudu – Nickname: ‘Tumie’. 4 Banyana Banyana caps. Age: 23 The Durban Ladies (Sasol League KwaZulu Natal) central midfielder is an honours sports science student. Nocawe Skiti – Nickname: ‘Speedy’. 15 Banyana Banyana caps. 4 goals scored. Age: 22. Like her nickname, the fast-paced Cape Town Roses (Sasol League Gauteng) right sided midfielder adds much value to the Banyana Banyana midfield. Strikers: Sanah Mollo – Nickname: ‘Diego’. 17 Banyana Banyana caps. 4 goals scored.

Age 25 The right-sided striker is a core part of the successful Bloemfontein Celtics (Sasol League Free State) team and is a post marketing graduate from the University of the Free State. Noko Matlou – Nickname: ‘Beep Beep’ (because of her speed). 64 Banyana Banyana caps. 52 goals scored. The Banyana Banyana vice captain has made the move from her roots in the Limpopo Province to study Transport Management and to play for the University of Johannesburg team in the Sasol League (Gauteng). Matlou is well decorated in honours being the CAF Women’s Player of the Year (2009) and the current SA Sportswoman of the Year. Leandra Smeda – Nickname: ‘Teko’ (because she runs like Bafana Bafana midfielder Teko Modise). 11 Banyana Banyana caps. 3 goals scored. Age 22 The striker from Cape Town Roses (Sasol League Western Cape) is studying Food Technology at the Cape University of Technology in Cape Town and has a right foot that is on the goal-trail.

Zanele Sukazi – Nickname: ‘Momo’ (from her childhood days). 5 Banyana Banyana caps. 2 goals scored. Age 24 The University of Johannesburg (Sasol League Gauteng) striker puts focus on Human Resources management when she is not on the football field. A natural athlete from her school days, she adds major versatility to the Banyana Banyana attack. Amanda Dlamini – Nickname: ‘Toki’ (after a musician that her mother liked in her home town. near Harding in KwaZulu Natal). 39 Banyana Banyana caps. 16 goals scored. Age: 23 The Banyana Banyana captain and striker is studying Transport Management at the University of Johannesburg, and plays for her tertiary institution’s club in the Sasol League (Gauteng), having originally played for Durban Ladies in the Sasol League (KwaZulu Natal). Andiswe Mgcoyi – Nickname: ‘Andy’ (short for Andiswe). 13 Banyana Banyana caps. 4 goals scored.

Age: 23 The tall striker made the move from the Mother City’s Cape Town Roses to Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies in the off-season and is an obvious beacon for Banyana Banyana’s incoming high crosses into their opponent’s penalty area. safa.net FIFA Women's U-17 World Cup Qualifiers Ghana vs Cameroon Ghana advance in the qualifying for the FIFA Women's U-17 World Cup after completing back-to-back wins over Cameroon. The Black Maidens beat their opponents 4-0 on Sunday at the Accra Sports Stadium to finish 5-0 winners on aggregate, having won the first leg 1-0 in Yaounde. Beatrice Sesu, Ellen Coleman, Mary Essilful and Jane Ayieyam scored all four goals for Ghana in the one-sided game. After the 15th minute, Sesu had put Ghana in front when she finished off a great move to end the first half 1-nil. Back from recess, coach Masaud Didi Dramani made his first change with the introduction of Essilful and the substitute soon responded when she fired in a low grounder to double Ghana's lead.

Ayieyam scored the third goal before Okyere completed the rout with seven minutes of play remaining. Ghana are pushing for one the three slots available to the continent for the World Cup in Azerbaijan later in September 2012 and that remains the Black Maidens' ultimate aim. Qualification to the World Cup would make it a third successive appearance for Ghana on the world stage. Nigeria vs Kenya Nigeria U-17 women team, the Flamingoes will confront their Zambian counterparts in the final round of the qualifiers for this year’s FIFA U-17 Women World Cup billed for Azerbaijan later in the year. To get to this stage, the Peter Dedevbo-tutored side on Saturday at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta, Ogun State, defeated their Kenyan counterparts 3-0 after beating them 2-0 in the first leg in Kenya a fortnight ago. Biahwo Kesiena, Adeboyejo Yetunde Oluwatosin and Ayinde Halima Ibrahim got the goals for the Nigerian side in Abeokuta. The Zambians beat Botswana by 2-0 at Nkoloma Stadium in Lusaka, Zambia on Sunday.

The win saw the junior Chipolopolo girls clobbering Botswana 7-1 on aggregate after winning their away leg 5-1 in Blantyre. Zambia will be at home against Nigeria in the first leg on 10 March 10, while the second leg will be played in Nigeria two weeks later. Head coach of the Flamingoes, Peter Dedevbo, expressed happiness over his girls’ victory, saying that the team lived up to their pre-match expectations. He said they will prepare very well against Zambia. In his words: “I am happy that we won. I commend the players for doing the nation proud. We have to go back and prepare for our next game. Zambia are a tough team and we are not going to underrate them. “I know they are a good side, but we have our own game plan too. Our dream is to pick the World Cup ticket,” he said.

By Bamidele Olowosagba World Cup 2010 Fan Guide | South Africa | Cape Town World Cup 2010 Fan Guide Publishing CreditsPublisher The 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee South Africa SAFA House, 76 Nasrec Road,Nasrec Ext 3, 2190Gauteng, South AfricaPrivate Bag X 2010, Mondeor 2110Johannesburg, South Africa Responsible for content: The 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee South Africa FIFAWith thanks to: TourismThe GCIS Layout and design: Carol Cole Advertising & Designwww .carolcole.co.zaemail: carol@carolcole.co.za Images:

Question: 'Banyana Banyana' which translates as 'Girls Girls' is the nickname of which nation's women's football team?
Answer: SOUTH AFRICA